Lucky residents at Care South’s Elizabeth House and Castle Dene care homes were treated to a trip to the Vitality Stadium – thanks to tickets donated by AFC Bournemouth as a result of its on-going community partnership. The donated tickets were to help Care South and its residents mark ‘International Day of Older Persons’ in October.
Residents were thrilled to join other supporters in the packed stands to watch AFC Bournemouth take on Brentford.
International Day of Older Persons was created by the United Nations General Assembly back in 1990, and this year’s theme explores the resilience of older people in a changing world. The UN is encouraging countries to draw attention to and challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions about older persons and ageing, and to enable older people to realise their potential. Over the next three decades, the number of older people worldwide is projected to more than double, reaching more than 1.5 billion in 2050.
Chris Golding, Head of Marketing and PR at Care South, said: “Many residents in our care are life-long Cherries fans, so it was fantastic to be able to take them to the match and let them soak up the atmosphere. It was a shame that the team couldn’t secure the win, but residents were happy enough to settle for a draw. The smiles on their faces at the end of the day certainly said it all!
“We celebrate International Day of Older Persons every day at Care South, but it is great to see other businesses and communities celebrate it. A longer life brings with it a wealth of experience and life skills that should be celebrated and shared. Our purpose is to ensure residents continue to live rich and fulfilled lives and that means continuing to offer them opportunities to get involved, be part of the community and enjoy new and favourite pastimes.”
Resident, Mitzy at Queensmead at Castle Dene added: “I enjoyed watching the football and I prefer to watch live games. I mostly enjoyed it as I was able to experience a live game with my husband, Ken. I also enjoyed the chanting and the beating of the drums.”
AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust is a cherished partner of Care South. Thanks to the partnership, staff and residents at Care South’s care homes and home care service clients can participate in activities where they can meet players, enjoy coffee mornings, become involved in walking football and enjoy stadium visits and tickets to matches such as this.
Watch videos of Care South’s partnership with AFC Bournemouth here: www.care-south.co.uk/videos/
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